Today, we are turning to you to denounce the tightening of visa restrictions in Africa, partic- ularly in Senegal. Restrictive visa policies and increasingly complex and costly visa applica- tion procedures are a major obstacle and an endless struggle for Africans who wish to travel, study, work or join their families abroad.
These policies have devastating conse- quences for individuals, families and commu- nities, who do not hesitate to find other means (the sea or the desert) to reach Eu- rope. They limit economic opportunities, re- strict access to education and training, and hinder social mobility. They also create ine- qualities and injustices, as those who can af- ford to pay visa fees and meet complex re- quirements can travel, while others are left behind.
The tightening of visa requirements in Africa is also a symbol of mistrust and suspicion to- wards Africans. It’s time to recognise that Af- ricans have the right to move freely and choose their place of residence, as stated in the Senegalese constitution. It is time to im- plement visa policies that are fair, equitable and respectful of human rights.
We demand that governments and interna- tional institutions take measures to relax visa policies and facilitate the mobility of Africans. We demand that visa fees be reduced or re- funded in case of a visa refusal, that visa ap- plication procedures be simplified, and that processing times be accelerated.
We stand in solidarity with Africans who are affected by these policies and who are fighting for their rights. We stand in solidarity with organisations working to defend the rights of migrants and refugees.
Freedom of movement is a fundamental right that should be accessible to everyone, re- gardless of gender, sexual orientation or gen- der identity. Yet LGBTQ+ people often face obstacles and dangers when travelling, whether within their own country or abroad.
Discriminatory laws and policies, homophobic and transphobic persecution and violence, travel restrictions and residence bans all con- tribute to creating a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ people. This often forces them to live in fear, hide their identity or give up their fun- damental rights.
It is time to recognise that freedom of move- ment is a fundamental right for LGBTQ+ peo- ple, just as it is for everyone else. It is time to implement policies that protect and facilitate the movement of LGBTQ+ people, rather than restricting it.
Together, we can create a fairer and more in- clusive world. A world where Africans can move freely and live with dignity. A world where human rights are respected and com- passion and solidarity are the values that guide our actions.
So I ask you to join the fight for more flexible visa policies in Africa. To defend the rights of Africans to move freely. To create a more just and united world. Together, we can make a difference.
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For more information on Boza Fii, check out their website: https://bozafii.org/
